Mail your Santa Letters at The Decatur Ga. Post Office

Decatur Post Office
520 W Ponce De Leon Ave
Decatur, GA 30030
Phone Number: (404) 373-8827

Half Marathon Training Program At Fleet Feet Decatur

This was sent in from Kim over at Fleet Feet Decatur.

Fleet Feet Decatur is offering a training program beginning Dec. 13 for the ING Georgia Half Marathon on Mar. 29, 2009. I thought your readers might be interested in a way they can stay fit through the holidays and accomplish a huge goal - running 13.1 miles! We're encouraging people of all fitness levels to join - runners and walkers.

Happy Holidays! Let me know if this information is of interest, and thanks for your support!

Kim Scarborough
Fleet Feet Decatur
404.371.0208

ING Georgia Half Marathon Training Program at Fleet Feet Decatur

WHO: You! Anybody looking for a fun group to train with for the ING Georgia Half Marathon on Mar. 29, 2009. First-timers welcome!
WHAT: 15-week training program with weekly group runs (long runs will take place on Saturday mornings)
WHEN: Training begins Dec. 13, 2008 at 8:00 a.m. In-store sign up has already begun!
WHERE: Three Fleet Feet locations - Decatur, Johns Creek, Lawrenceville
WHY: Because you can do anything!
COST: $75 (includes Saucony jacket and technical tee, coached training program, e-newsletter with training tips, $5 off race registration)

Sign-up is available in the store or prior to the program kick-off from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. on Dec. 13. Email kim@fleetfeetdecatur.com or visit our website for more information.

Discounted marathon and half marathon race registration will be available in the store through Mar. 13, 2008. Make sure you join the Fleet Feet Sports team when registering!

J. Christopher's has an eye on East Lake location

J. Christopher’s poised for growth beyond breakfast
Atlanta-based restaurant has formed partnership that aims to expand the franchise

By JOE GUY COLLIER
CLICK ON PICTURE.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Monday, December 01, 2008

After studying the J. Christopher’s restaurant chain last year, Dick Holbrook and Sam Haddock came away with a simple assessment.

Holbrook and Haddock had spent more than 30 years each in the restaurant business, working with brands such as Arby’s, Popeyes, Wendy’s and Moe’s.
“The great news is that J. Christopher’s is a great place to have breakfast,” Haddock said they concluded. “The bad news is that J. Christopher’s is a great place to have breakfast.”

A year later, Holbrook and Haddock say they have J. Christopher’s poised to grow as a breakfast, brunch and lunch spot. The two restaurant veterans formed in August 2007 a partnership with Jay McCann and Chris Brogdon, the founders of the concept, to create J. Christopher’s Restaurants LLC.

The new company was established to help J. Christopher’s expand, primarily through franchised restaurants. The Atlanta-based chain had 16 locations at the time the deal was signed. It has since added locations in Vinings, Nashville, Kennesaw’s Town Center and north Roswell.

J. Christopher’s has stores planned in 2009 for Woodstock, Brookhaven, East Lake, Johns Creek and Macon. A second site in Nashville also is possible.


The economic downturn has slowed the growth in same-store sales but they’re still up from last year, McCann said. “We’re happy, in this market,” he said.

With ticket prices of about $10, J. Christopher’s is banking on customers seeing value in what their restaurants offer, McCann said. “We consider J. Christopher’s one of life’s little luxuries,” he said.

AJC

Decatur location

250 E Ponce De Leon Ave
Decatur, GA 30030
(404) 378-2662

Great song by The Killers- Human

Have you tried Sawicki's

Lynne Sawicki's culinary background spans 24 years in the Atlanta area. She has worked in some of Atlanta's finest restaurants such as Alon's, Flying Biscuit, Nava, Partners and Indigo and Bacchanalia. You might know her from Star Provisions, where she worked in the meat and seafood department for 3 years. She was with the company for 8 years, starting at Floataway Café as Chef de Cuisine. Lynne brings her extensive experience as a chef to her store to offer you a wide variety of salumi, cured and fresh meats, wild seafood and local organic produce and to offer her expertise in handling and preparations.

Her mission? "To teach others what I know so that they too can cook a wonderful, restaurant quality dinner at their homes. I love the community in Decatur - I have lived here over 12 years and enjoy bringing my knowledge of good cooking and fine ingredients to people."

Sandwich Menu

Sawicki's
250 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
Decatur, GA.
404-377-0992

Foreclosure Aid may help...Maybe.

Today (Monday) is the deadline for local and state officials to apply for Federal aid, this help will or should help restore neighborhoods that are looking at foreclosures and/or abandoned properties.
A few of the most hard-hit counties — Fulton, DeKalb and Gwinnett — will get both direct federal aid and a secondary allotment through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

AJC

Christmas Tree Window Display @ Wordsmith's Book

Paolo's Gelato Italiano Ice

Paolo's Gelato Italiano Ice
1025 Virginia Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30306
Phone: (404) 607-0055

Spook Show Saturday is Tonight at The Plaza Theatre

You never know quite what to expect at a S.S.S.S. Professor Morte could summon ghastly ghosts that swarm over the audience's heads.

So hold on to the seat of your pants and buy a ticket or three to

THE SILVER SCREAM SPOOK SHOW!

KIDS UNDER 12 FREE AT THE 1:00 MATINEE! EVERYONE ELSE ONLY $7.

ALL TICKETS ARE $10 FOR THE 10:00 SHOW!

If you went to this, let us know how it was.
Leave your comments:

Looking back at Decatur Ga. circa 1970's - Time Machine

If anyone has a photo of this strip of stores from the 1940's through the 1970's
please send me a copy of it to post, I know everyone would love it.
Thanks
I tried to duplicate my picture that I took back in the 1970's
Here is that same shot as it looks today.

Special Thanks from Whit's End

Dear Whit’s End Supporters,

Just a warm THANK YOU from us at Whit’s End for your postings about our Black Friday/Terrific Thursday sales. Many, many folks have come in from your generous promotions. You are providing a valuable tool for neighbors to get more information, and continue to allow our community to thrive in this tough economic time. As residents and merchants of Decatur, we are grateful for your efforts, and proud of your accolades.

I enjoy reading and seeing all of the information given throughout these great venues to keep folks informed.


Best,

Jeff and Greg

Whit's End, LLC
431 W. Ponce DeLeon Ave, #2
Decatur, GA 30030
(404) 377-3310

(404) 377-8335 Fax

whitsenddecatur@bellsouth.net
www.whitsenddecatur.com

Being single during the Holidays.

All I want for Christmas is somebody, anybody!

By Blanca | Friday, November 28, 2008, 07:55 AM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Happy Black Friday! First things first: Good news! The dessert I prepared for Roland’s family’s Thanksgiving was a huge hit. I thought at first everyone was humoring me, but when I saw none of my pumpkin roll was left, I breathed my first sigh of relief. And as I hoped, everyone welcomed me with open arms. A great holiday!

On Wednesday as I baked the pumpkin dessert, I listened to Christmas songs, most notably Mariah Carey’s holiday album from years ago. Throw in some Nat King Cole, some Harry Connick Jr., some Bing Crosby and even Amy Grant’s ancient album. (My mother often played that record, so it has some nostalgia for Blanca.)

Many of the songs, like Mariah’s “All I Want for Christmas,” center around the concept of missing an Ex during the holidays, or perhaps just wanting a significant other with whom to share the special times.

I was thinking about this as a girlfriend of mine called me Wednesday from the airport, complaining that she was seated across from two lovebirds canoodling as they traveled home for the holidays. She mentioned that she’s particularly down spending the day as a single woman watching others in love.

What is it about the holidays that make us a want a partner? Why isn’t just spending it with family and friends enough? For those of you who are happy and content as strong single folk, do you find your mood changes once the mistletoe is hung?

Click photo for video.

Earlybird shoppers hit stores on ‘Black Friday’

By RACHEL TOBIN RAMOS, KATHY JEFCOATS

Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Friday, November 28, 2008

Die-hard shoppers made their pilgrimages to metro area malls and outlet centers Friday, though traffic appeared to be moderate and many said they planned to trim their spending in light of this fall’s economic slowdown.

Some mall parking lots were filling up by mid-morning, while others had plenty of space. Discounters Wal-Mart and Target saw moderate to heavy traffic, as did Discover Mills in Gwinnett County. Traffic was steady but relatively light at North Georgia Premium Outlets in Dawsonville.
full story here.

The Great Tree at Lenox Square

Photo of Rich's @ Lenox Sq. before the name change to Macy's

(now The Great Tree at Macy's.) is a large (70 to 90-foot tall) cut pine Christmas tree that has been an Atlanta tradition since 1948. [1] That year, the Rich's department store put a large pine tree atop its downtown store, lighting it on Thanksgiving night. The idea was conceived by head of advertising, Frank Pallotta. Later, the tree was perched over a seven-story "Crystal Bridge" that connected the original Rich's department store with a new building addition on the opposite side of Forsyth Street. With the tree on the roof of the complex, combined with its tall height, the Great Tree truly was great and could be seen for tens of miles outside the downtown district of Atlanta. It was visible for decades, well into the early 1970s, but as the city grew with new, taller skyscrapers, the view of the Great Tree became more obscured in its last two decades at the downtown store.

As the tree became an Atlanta tradition, more was added to the display to create an attraction in its own right. This included Santa's Workshop, complete with "Reindeer" on loan from the Stone Mountain Park Petting Zoo that parents and children would walk through on the way to visit with Santa Claus. Also, inside the store, was Santa's 'Secret Shop'. Off-limits to the adults, childern entered an enclosed mini shopping area. With money vouchers in-hand, we bought gifts for parents and everyone! All of this spirit of Christmas started at the street level with wonderfull animated window displays. The goal of course...for us kids... whatever the current 'home', was the Pink Pig!. The undeniable star of Rich's, the Pink Pig, a carnival ride of sorts that was a miniature monorail sized for children. Adults would be hard-pressed to fit inside the enclosed cars that the children sat in as the ride operated. The original ride 'flew' from the ceiling of the toy department. Later, it moved to a Christmas village outside the building that surrounded the Great Tree. [Ed et all Q. I remember inside/outside but not both at once.] and once the Pig returned indoors, it "flew" over the toy department before returning to its starting point. The original pink Pig was named Priscilla. A second pig, named Percival was later added to meet the high demand to ride the pig. After completing their journey, riders got a sticker that said "I rode the Pink Pig" that became a badge of honor.

The ride moved to the Festival of Trees in the 1990s, and resided at the Atlanta History Center. The ride was resurrected in 2004 when it reappeared at Rich's Lenox Square Mall, the new location for the Great Tree. It should be noted that the new version of the Pink Pig is a conventional train ride with a miniature pink pig (locomotive) pulling a set of pink child-sized passenger cars at ground level, instead of the original monorail design. I suspect the original monorail was retired due to modern safety and liability issues as well as the probability that because the original monorail system was so old it could not be maintained as a viable and safe children's ride.

During the time The Great Tree was at the downtown Rich's store, it was undeniably the biggest Christmas-time attraction in the Southeastern United States. Parents from around the South brought their children to downtown Atlanta expressly to experience this attraction and have their picture taken with the Rich's Santa Claus. The waiting lines to ride the Pig and to see Santa very much compare to the lines that we see today where people stand for hours to ride one of the popular amusement park rides in today's theme parks. Millions of children and their parents made the annual migration during its tenure. Today in the 21st Century, when people try to prove how "Southern" they are, one of the most proudest claims to that right is that they rode The Pink Pig Monorail at the Downtown Rich's department store. The Pink Pig was an immensely popular attraction in its own right. Decades after the original Pink Pig was retired, many Atlanta natives who rode the pig as children fondly reminisce about their rides in the pig. The ride inspired the book I Rode the Pink Pig: Atlanta's Favorite Christmas Tradition.

Sugarland - Already Gone

Sugarland was part of the MACY'S Thanksgiving Parade this morning performing Already Gone,
here they are last week on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

Last Minute Thanksgiving Tips from Decatur's Sawicki's

Carving the turkey

Expert: Lynne Sawicki, owner, Sawicki’s (250 West Ponce De Leon Ave., Decatur, 404-377-0992)

Common error: Starting close to the skin and working toward the breast bone. This approach creates uneven slices.

Tip: After using a very sharp, nonserrated knife to cut all the way down the breast bone, transfer the breast half in one piece to a cutting board. Then slice crosswise on a slight bias.

Leave the limbs until after the breast meat is removed, Sawicki says.

How to roast the Turkey

• Place the oven rack in lowest position and preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

• Remove gizzard, neck and heart. Rinse turkey inside and out with cold water and pat dry.

• Stuff butter and herbs between the skin and the mat. Rub olive oil on the skin of the bird, and season it with salt and pepper.

• Transfer the turkey, breast side up, to a rack in a roasting pan. Tuck the wing tips under the breast, and tie the drumsticks together loosely.

• Roast the turkey 45 minutes. Reduce the heat to 350 degrees and cook until the juices run clear, or the internal temperature of the dark meat is at least 165 degrees.

• Cover the bird with foil and let it stand at least 30 minutes before carving. Use this time to reheat your sides and make the gravy.

From Lynne Sawicki, Sawicki’s
250 West Ponce De Leon Avenue
Decatur, GA 30030-3269


Lynne Sawicki's culinary background spans 24 years in the Atlanta area. You might know her from Star Provisions, where she worked in the meat and seafood department for 3 years. She was with the company for 8 years, starting at Floataway Café as Chef de Cuisine. Lynne brings her experience to her store offering a wide variety of salumi, cured and fresh meats, wild seafood and local organic produce and to offer her expertise in handling and preparations. Her mission? "To teach others what I know so that they too can cook a wonderful, restaurant quality dinner at their homes."
eveningedge/AJC

Stonecrest mall energizes southeast DeKalb

Stonecrest mall energizes southeast DeKalb

Photo:Gerald Singletary
This aerial view of the Stonecrest area is from October. Expansions will include a Wal-Mart, a Holiday Inn and auto dealerships.

By DONNA WILLIAMS LEWIS

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Construction crews still dot the landscape around the Mall at Stonecrest, seven years after the mall that it seemed would never be built finally opened in southeast DeKalb County.

“It has exceeded all of our expectations,” said Maria Mullins, director of DeKalb’s Office of Economic Development.
The mall was a long time coming. For 18 years, land off I-20 at Turner Hill Road in Lithonia sat cleared as a series of developers approached and retreated from the project. Ground finally was broken for Stonecrest in October 1999 by Toronto-based commercial real estate investor Cadillac Fairview and its partner on the mall, Cleveland-based real estate developer Forest City Enterprises.

Stonecrest transformed the once-sleepy, rural area. Now the 1,100 acres that comprise the mall and adjacent property owned by Cadillac Fairview include five hotels, nearly 20 restaurants, several office buildings, dozens of businesses and hundreds of homes.

Moving beyond the mall, thousands of homes — from apartments to single family houses priced from $200,000 to $500,000 — have been built, are under construction or planned in subdivisions within a one-mile radius.

Here’s an update on the mall:

What’s new

• In the mall: Kohl’s has joined Dillard’s, Macy’s, J.C. Penney and Sears as an anchor.

• New office space: A 55,000-square-foot building with Strayer University as anchor tenant and a 30,000- square-foot medical building anchored by DeKalb Medical have opened. Kaiser Permanente has opened in an 18,000-square-foot building, with plans to expand to 32,000 square feet.

• Residential: Ryland Homes has finished about 300 homes and 20 townhomes among 1,028 homes planned for The Parks at Stonecrest.

• Restaurants: An IHOP restaurant opened last summer with an upscale, stacked stone exterior.

• Car dealership: A Malcolm Cunningham Mazda car dealership opened last week on Mall Parkway.

In the works

• A 120-room Holiday Inn Hotel, with a 10,000-square-foot conference center. Expected opening: spring 2009.

• Ashley Furniture store, 55,000 square feet under construction. Expected opening: first quarter 2009.

• More auto dealerships. Carmax has purchased nine acres next to Target. Conyers Toyota is relocationg on 12 acres on Mall Parkway. Expected opening: spring 2009.

• Wal-Mart has 25 acres under contract at Mall Parkway and Klondike Road. Expected opening: Not yet determined.

What’s missing

• Entertainment area: An entertainment village originally was planned to be built on 30 acres adjacent to the mall’s movie theater plaza. The area is being reinvented as a mixed-use “hospitality/retail/residential area.” Two acres have just been sold there for Stonecrest’s sixth hotel, a Marriott.

• Grocery store: The proposed Wal-Mart is expected to have a grocery division. Cadillac Fairview also is considering holding open-air markets that would sell produce and other wares on the property.

Growth around Stonecrest

• Flat Rock Elementary School opened in August 2007 on Evans Mill Road near Browns Mill Road. A new environmentally themed high school, Arabia Mountain High School, is under construction off Browns Mill Road, and is expected to open next summer.

• Ground was broken Nov. 21 for a 25,000-square-foot public library branch at the intersection of Klondike Road and Hayden Quarry Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in December. Projected opening: January 2010.

• The state Department of Transportation has launched an $8.9 million project to widen and reconstruct 1.2 miles on Lithonia Industrial Boulevard, from Rogers Lake Road to Rock Chapel Road. A bridge will be built over the Swift Creek tributary.

Black Friday in Decatur

Many stores are having sales this Friday
see list of stores at The Decatur Minute

Whit's End specials for Friday thru Sunday

Whit's End lets us know of specials this Friday,Saturday & Sunday

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone,


Our sales specials for this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will be 20% off all Columbia fleece, shirts, sweaters, jackets, and sweatshirts, and 10% off all other non-sale items in the store (excluding DHS Spirit Wear, and Photography).

Also on sale now at 20% off are all TOMS SHOES. (Remember, a child in need gets a free pair for each pair sold.) All Docker’s pants, and Patagonia Shoes are on sale. Some gifts and clothing are clearance priced, as are all Columbia shoes.

If you can’t come in this weekend, please stop by and have a glass of wine with us and enjoy additional savings each Thursday evening in December.

Please remember to shop Decatur!

See you in soon.
Jeff and Greg
Whit's End, LLC
431 W. Ponce DeLeon Ave, #2
Decatur, GA 30030
(404) 377-3310
(404) 377-8335 Fax
whitsenddecatur@bellsouth.net

wwwhitsenddecatur.com

Get out your Train set it's Almost Christmas

It's one month till Christmas, if you are one of those who set up a train set under your Christmas tree every year, you better dust off the old train set and start planning your setup.

Remember metal Christmas tree tinsel and bubbling lights ? How about the distinctive aroma from the motor of the electric train circling the tree ? Or the sound of the train whistle ? Christmas is a time when all of our senses seem heightned and childhood memories are happy. (Toy Train Memories).

The photo above is my Christmas Train Layout.

If you have a photo of your Christmas train layout send it to me and I will post it.
and add it to my Electric Train Xmas site.

Great black & white photo of Downtown Decatur

Great photo from Flickr member KZIM56

Review for Eddie's Attic

Editorial Review for Eddie's Attic – by Alison Embrey

The Scene
A musical pilgrimage for aspiring singer-songwriters, Eddie's may resemble a crowded attic, but its coziness, combined with an excellent sound system, serves the acoustic-only performers well. While earnest artists sing their hearts out on stage, patrons sip cocktails, respectfully adhering to the "quiet listening" policy (no cell phones, smoking or loud chatter). An outside patio bar is the designated area for making noise and shooting pool.

The Draw
Having launched talent such as the Indigo Girls, John Mayer and Shawn Mullin, this music room is ripe for catching the next big thing. The all-ages 7pm show on Fridays and Saturdays serves as a warm-up for the 21-and-up crowd that strolls in for the 9pm performance. If hunger strikes, an expanded bar-food menu ranges from loaded nachos to sauteed tilapia.


Insider Tips
Know Before You Go

Your best bet is to order tickets online and arrive at the venue early. Entrance to the music room is based on the order that tickets were purchased online.
When to Go

If you think you deserve a gig at Eddie's, try out on Mondays at the open mic. You can win cash and stage time.
The Extras

If you live in the City of Decatur, bring your I.D. with a "30030" zip code and your second drink is free.
City Search.


Eddie's Attic
515-B N McDonough St
Decatur, GA 30030
Phone: (404) 377-4976

Volunteer for Decatur's Tour of Homes

Decatur Holiday Candlelight Tour of Homes: Living Green
Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6
5:30-9:30 p.m.

We are a little over a week away from the Decatur Holiday Candlelight Tour of Homes. This year's tour features homes with the theme of "Living Green." Take a look inside eight of Decatur's most interesting homes. This year's tour focuses on homes renovated in eco-friendly ways, using "green" materials and techniques to minimize their impact on the Earth. Take the free Cliff shuttle from home to home, and to four exciting points of interest. Proceeds from the tour benefit the Decatur Youth Fund and the Decatur Preservation Alliance.




Volunteers receive a complimentary ticket to take the Tour. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at Seventeen Steps, Intown Ace Hardware, Bicycle South, and The Seen Gallery. Proceeds from the tour benefit the Decatur Youth Fund, which sends disadvantaged Decatur youths to summer school, summer camp and specialty camps, and the Decatur Preservation Alliance, which operates the Woodlands Garden and works to protect and preserve the city's architectural heritage. Read more about the homes on the Tour at http://decaturtourofhomes.com. Volunteer sign up forms are also available on the website.


Volunteer shifts are:
Friday, December 5, 5:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Friday, December 5, 7:15 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 6, 5:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Saturday, December 6, 7:15 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.


Most volunteer positions still open are during the second shift both evenings. Volunteers are welcome to pick up their ticket before their shift, so they may start touring prior to their shift. To sign up, please call Lee Ann Harvey at 678-553-6548 or email leeannharvey@decaturga.com and be sure to give your name, shift time preferred, email address, and day and evening phone. We appreciate your support of the Tour.

Renewal Construction's Unique Thanksgiving Card

The story behind the card is special to me. If you didn't know Renewal Construction Inc. is located at 124 S. Columbia Dr. Decatur, GA. That address is special to me because my parents lived there in the 1940's so I contacted Kelly Cheek
Marketing Manager of Renewal Construction and told her my story and sent her pictures that I had showing my parents in front of the house, and also the way the house looked in the 1980's when it was a church/bible store. They loved the photos so much they made a Thanksgiving Card to use for their company showing 124 S. Columbia Dr. through the years.
Thanks to everyone over at Renewal Construction Inc. for using my photos.
and Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

Renewal Construction 124 S. Columbia Dr. Decatur, GA 30030 t. 404-378-6962 f. 404-378-6963

Check out there blog here

This Thanksgiving let Wahoo! do the cooking for you.

This Thanksgiving let Wahoo! do the cooking for you. Order your side dishes or full meal today by calling 404-373-3331.
Wahoo! will be open and acccepting reservations for all parties on Wednesday, Nov. 26th



Enjoy our delicious Brunch Buffet Friday, Nov. 28th from 11 am until 3 pm.




Children Eat Free
Monday-Thursday 5pm to 6:30pm
(one free child's meal with
every adult entree purchase).

Please note - Wahoo! will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.


Wahoo! Grill

1042 West College Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-3331 www.wahoogrilldecatur.com

The Silver Scream Spookshow Sat. Nov 29 @ The Plaza Theatre

Saturday NOV 29th - 1pm & 10pm


THE CRAWLING EYE

www.silverscreamspookshow.com


You never know quite what to expect at a S.S.S.S. Professor Morte could summon ghastly ghosts that swarm over the audience's heads, hot ghoul on ghoul action from Blast Off Blast Off Burlesque and people have been know to win their very own and very real DEAD BODY.

So hold on to the seat of your pants and buy a ticket or three to

THE SILVER SCREAM SPOOK SHOW!

KIDS UNDER 12 FREE AT THE 1:00 MATINEE! EVERYONE ELSE ONLY $7.

ALL TICKETS ARE $10 FOR THE 10:00 SHOW!

The Plaza Theatre
1049 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30306
(404) 873-1939

Parker's on Ponce - Decatur's first independantly owned steakhouse.

Decatur Metro reports Parker's on Ponce is now OPEN.

* Parker's on Ponce writes...
Decaturs first independantly owned steakhouse.
* Dining Style: Casual Elegant
* Cuisine: Steak
* Neighborhood: Decatur
* Cross Street: Clairmont Road
* Price: $30 and under
* Website: http://www.parkersonponce.com
* Email: jt@parkersonponce.com
* Phone: (404) 867-4007
* Hours of Operation:
Lunch: Monday - Friday: 11:00am - 4:00pm
Dinner: Sunday - Thursday: 4:00pm - 10:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 4:00pm - 12:00am
* Payment Options:
Discover, Visa
* Executive Chef: David Hartshorn
* Dress Code: Smart Casual
* Accepts Walk-Ins: Yes
* Offers: Banquet/Private Rooms, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Fireplace, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking Area, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Personal wines welcome (corkage fee applies), Private Room, Smoking Area (patio only), Weekend Brunch, Wine
* Parking: Private Lot

Parker's on Ponce
116 E Ponce De Leon Ave
Decatur, GA.
404-867-4007

Dekalb Students to get new school bus schedules by Dec. 12

This looks like its for dekalb schools starting with Champion Theme Middle School.

By KRISTINA TORRES

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution



DeKalb County students facing busing cutbacks next semester should by Dec. 12 receive detailed packets that tell them their new busing schedule as well as maps of their new route.

General maps of all the new routes are also available on the system’s Web site, http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/

Starting Jan. 6, busing will be cut back for most students who attend schools outside their neighborhood; the busing cutback will start next school year for Champion Theme Middle School.

The change affects about 5,600 of the school district’s 99,600 students. It’s one of several budget-cutting proposals approved this month in the wake of a sour economy and further cuts in state funding.

10 DAYS OUT: WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Here is a list of things to do in and around Atlanta
I know this is not all Decatur stuff, but people who live in Decatur do have cars and I don't think their cars would stop running at the city limits, I think people who do read blogs or websites for information won't mind a little other news mixed in.



10 DAYS OUT: WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR COMMUNITY

By Shane Harrison

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution



Intown Atlanta: DON’T MISS: Nov. 21-23

“American Idol” alums Ruben Studdard and Frenchie Davis star in “Ain’t Misbehavin’.” 8 p.m. Nov. 21-22; 2 p.m. Nov. 22; 1 and 6:30 p.m. Nov. 23. $14-$43. Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. 800-278-4447, www.broadwayacrossamerica.com.
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Intown Atlanta: LIVE MUSIC: Nov. 21

Grammy-nominated R&B and jazz singer Chante Moore is joined by husband Kenny Lattimore. 8 p.m. $55-$65. Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, 395 Piedmont Ave. N.E. 404-523-6275, www.atlantaciviccenter.com.

Intown Atlanta: ARTS & THEATER: Nov. 21

See Kimo Minton’s sculpture and Stephanus Heidacker’s new paintings from the series “An-Other View,” which debuts 6-9 p.m. at Tew Galleries, 425 Peachtree Hills Ave., No. 24. 404-869-0511, www.tewgalleries.com.

Intown Atlanta: KIDS & FAMILY: Nov. 27

Singer-songwriter Jewel and Tony-winning Broadway star Heather Headley come to Lenox Square for the Lighting of Macy’s Great Tree. 7-8 p.m. Free. 3393 Peachtree Road N.E. 404-231-2800, www.macys.com.

Intown Atlanta: ETC.: Nov. 21

Randy Owen, vocalist of the band Alabama, signs his memoir “Born Country: How Faith, Family and Music Brought Me Home” at Borders in Buckhead, 7 p.m. 3637 Peachtree Road N.E. 404-237-0707, www.bordersstores.com.

DeKalb: DON’T MISS: Nov. 30

Edwin McCain’s latest album, “Nobody’s Fault But Mine,” is a collection of cover versions, most of classic Southern soul tunes. 8 p.m. $25. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur. 404-377-4976, www.eddiesattic.com.

DeKalb: LIVE MUSIC: Nov. 29

Mississippi’s Kate Campbell chronicles the people, places and history of the South. She celebrates her new album at Eddie’s Attic. 6 and 9 p.m. Nov. 29. $18; $15 advance. 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur. 404-377-4976, www.eddiesattic.com.

DeKalb: KIDS & FAMILY: Nov. 22

Holiday musical “Alvin and the Chipmunks” brings Simon, Theodore and Alvin to the Mall at Stonecrest. Meet-and-greet after last performance. Noon, 1:30, 3 p.m. Free. 2929 Turner Hill Road, Lithonia. 678-526-8955, www.mallatstonecrest.com.

DeKalb: ETC.: Nov. 21-22

In “Language/Listening,” Louise Runyon Performance Company views communication through movement and music.8 p.m. $10. Beacon Hill Art Center, 410 W. Trinity Place, Decatur. 404-728-8991, www.louiserunyonperformance.com.

Fulton: DON’T MISS: Nov. 29

The Roswell Historic Homes Tour includes the festively decked Barrington Hall, Smith Plantation Home and Bulloch Hall. 5-9 p.m. $20-$25; $15-$20 advance. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731, www.bullochhall.org.

Fulton: LIVE MUSIC: Nov. 23

The Waybacks’ latest album, “Loaded,” is another of the band’s musical melting pots of Americana. 7 p.m. $30; $25 advance. Ragamuffin Music, 585 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-656-5137, www.ragamuffinmusic.com.

Fulton: ARTS & THEATER: Nov. 30

The Atlanta Wind Symphony holiday concert features Russian composers. 3 p.m. $5-$10; ages 12 and younger free with adult. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St. 770-641-1260, www.AtlantaWindSymphony.org.

Fulton: KIDS & FAMILY: Nov. 21

Roswell Tellabration is part of a worldwide storytelling event. 7:30 p.m. $5. Roswell Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road. 770-640-3253, www.tellabration.org.

Fulton: ETC.: Nov. 25

Hapeville for the Holidays includes the annual tree lighting and musical performances by local children. 8 p.m. Free. Jess Lucas Y-Teen Park, 680 S. Central Ave., Hapeville. 404-669-2136, www.hapeville.org.

Cobb/Cherokee: DON’T MISS: Nov. 24-Dec. 31

Life University’s annual Lights of Life display includes more than a million tiny twinkling lights on a mile-long course. 6-10 p.m. $5 per car; $10 per van; $20 per bus. 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta. 770-426-2905, www.life.edu.

Cobb/Cherokee: ARTS & THEATER: Nov. 21-23

“Lysistrata,” a ribald Greek comedy of war and the battle of the sexes, is presented by Kennesaw State’s theater department. 8 p.m. Nov. 21-22; 2 p.m. Nov. 23. $15. 1000 Chastain Road, Kennesaw. 770-423-6650, www.kennesaw.edu/arts.

Cobb/Cherokee: KIDS & FAMILY: Nov. 28-Dec. 21

Theatre on Main presents an adaptation of the Frank Capra holiday favorite, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. $12-$15. 4857 N. Main St., Acworth. 770-565-3995, www.theatreonmain.net.

Cobb/Cherokee: ETC.: Nov. 29-30

Ruth Mitchell Dance Theatre gets the yuletide under way with “The Nutcracker.” 2 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29; 2 and 5:30 p.m. Nov. 30. $22-$24. Cobb County Civic Center, 548 S. Marietta Parkway, Marietta. 678-318-3576, www.ruthmitchelldance.org.

Gwinnett: DON’T MISS: Nov. 28

The Rock4Research Benefit Concert has Rhett Akins and a VIP party with Matt Stinchcomb of the NFL and the Braves’ Jeff Francoeur. 8 p.m. $10; $20 VIP. Wild Bill’s, 2075 Market St., Duluth. 770-366-7321, www.rock4research.com/2008.

Gwinnett: LIVE MUSIC: Nov. 21

Longtime country duo Montgomery Gentry —- Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry —- plays Wild Bill’s. 9 p.m. $28-$100. 2075 Market St., Duluth. 678-473-1000, www.wildbillsatlanta.com.

Gwinnett: ARTS & THEATER: Nov. 28-30

The Northeast Atlanta Ballet performs “The Nutcracker.” 2 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28-29; 10 a.m. Nov. 29; 2 p.m. Nov. 30. $12-$18. Gwinnett Performing Arts Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. 770-921-7277, www.northeastatlantaballet.org.

Gwinnett: KIDS & FAMILY: Nov. 27

Santa will be on hand for the Gwinnett Lighting of the Tree. 5-8:30 p.m. Free admission. Gwinnett Courthouse Square, 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450, www.visitlawrenceville.com.

Gwinnett: ETC.: Nov. 22-23

Get stones, pearls, beads and more at the Intergalactic Bead and Jewelry Show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $4-$5. Gwinnett Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. 1-888-729-6904, www.beadshows.com.

Decatur Holiday Marketplace & Cafe

Decatur Holiday Marketplace & Cafe - Decatur, GA
December 5 - 6, 2008

Clairemont Elementary School, is hosting its 16th Annual Decatur Holiday Marketplace and Café on Friday and Saturday, December 5-6th, 2008. The event, a fundraiser for Clairemont PTA, showcases more than 90 artists and craftspeople selling their wares in a festive setting during the holiday season. http://www.decaturholidaymarketplace.com/index.html
The Café, located in the school's cafeteria, features homemade soups and baked goods, as well as live music from local musicians.

Directions:
• Get on Clairemont Road going south toward Decatur Square
• After the light at North Decatur Road (Emory Commons Shopping Area) the light at Scott Blvd., and the light at Michigan Ave. Turn left onto Erie Ave. (Landmark: Lutheran Church).
• Clairemont Elementary is the 4th building on the right, after the church's parking lot.

What's all the Fuss over this movie. ?

Wiggle is named Best Kids Clothes by Atlanta Magazine

Congratulations to Wiggle's

Wiggles gives thanks.
A big thanks to Atlanta Magazine for noticing little old Wiggle this year. We are proud to have been named Best Kids Clothes in Atlanta this year and will be featured in the upcoming edition of the magazine.

“Best of Atlanta Kids Clothes” — Parents who want their kids to look like kids–cute, playful, neat, innocent–and not like mini versions of the cast of Gossip Girl can rejoice in the updated classics and just-hip-enough lines carried by Kolby Sanders-Lewis. Unlike the many boutiques that overemphasize party clothes for girls, Wiggle caters to both boys and girls and stocks lots of affordable play clothes (love those Charlie Rocket hoodies and CoCo Bonbons pinafore dresses).

305 East College Ave.
Decatur, GA 30030
404-373-2522

Decatur Travel Agency

Photo of The Decatur Travel Agency put through photo-shop

Please come and visit us.
308 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Suite E
Decatur, Georgia 30030
Phone: (404)373-9493 or (404)373-9494
(800)969-4754

Decatur CD's Upcoming Show Guide - For November

November 21st - King Khan and BBQ Show @ Lenny's
November 21st - Darrell Scott @ Eddie's Attic
November 21st - Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson, Castanets @ Drunken Unicorn
November 21st - Tinsley Ellis @ Variety Playhouse
November 21st - Stomp & Stammer 12th Anniversary (Featuring: The Coathangers, All the Saints, Noot D' Noot) @ The EARL
November 22nd - Stomp & Stammer 12th Anniversary (Featuring: The Reigning Sound, Mary Weiss [of The Shangri-Las]) @ The EARL
November 22nd - Amy Ray @ Variety Playhouse
November 22nd - Quintron and Miss Pussycat, Carbonas @ Eyedrum
November 22nd - Eagles of Death Metal @ Center Stage
November 23rd - The Bonaventure Quartet @ Eddie's Attic
November 24th - Q Tip, The Cool Kids, Janelle Monae @ Center Stage
November 24th - Gang Gang Dance @ The EARL
November 24th - B.B. King @ Tabernacle
November 28th - Modern Skirts @ The EARL
November 29th - Shawn Mullins @ Variety Playhouse
November 29th - Snowden @ The EARL
November 30th - Edwin McCain @ Eddie's Attic

Thanks Decatur CD for making this handy show guide.

Richard’s Variety Store Opens 2nd location

Retail is risky business in restless times

By RACHEL TOBIN RAMOS

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution


Robert Klenberg looked for 10 years for a second location for his quirky, family-owned five-and-dime, Richard’s Variety Store.

Yet fear of opening another location — with another lease payment, more stock and additional staff — kept him waiting in the wings.
But last month, he finally did it. He opened a second outpost in the Midtown Promenade shopping center, next to a Trader Joe’s and Tuesday Morning.

It may seem counterintuitive to open a retail store in the midst of a recession. But a shaky economy hides blessings and curses.

On the blessing side, independent Atlanta retailers are finding more pliable landlords, better locations and an eager work force.

“Of course it scared me to open in the middle of the recession,” said Klenberg, 54. He and his wife, Ming Yang, 45, own and operate their two stores.

But Klenberg said the downturn helped him snag a prime location near two well-known retailers, restaurants, bars and a movie theater, right near Piedmont Park.

On the curse side, however, consumers right now are tight-fisted and unpredictable. Combined with the housing crisis and credit crunch, retailers are in for tough times during the holiday season — and beyond.

Photo:Jason Getz/jgetz@ajc.com
The ‘big pretty clock,’ as employees call it, watches over Richard’s Variety Store in the Midtown Promenade shopping center. The owners took 10 years to decide on the location, and they say business is great.

Pythagoras Masonic Temple & The Paper Chase

The Paper Chase sold used books,comic books & magazines.
It closed  not long after this was taken.

Photo circa 1983

In Your Face Pete by James Dean

Pete and his friend Sadie Belle are out for a joyride! Who knows where they may end up.

All Pete The Cat Art By: James Dean

Designer Kenneth Cole to speak at Emory

Designer Cole to speak at Emory

By GAYLE WHITE

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Designer Kenneth Cole, chairman of the world’s largest HIV/AIDS research organization, will give the keynote address at an Emory University ceremony marking World AIDS Day on Dec. 1. In the fourth annual “Quilt on the Quad,” the university will display 800 panels from he AIDS Memorial Quilt from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Cole, an Emory alumnus, will speak at the opening of the exhibit. The quilt display is sponsored by Emory Hillel.

HOOPLA - Fun Stuff For Kids

Hoopla, an eclectic children’s store in Decatur, started as a friendship. Sabrina Lilly and Linda Beckstein crossed paths as fellow “retailers” in the corporate world. Jobs changed but the friendship grew over time with lots of cups of coffee, dreaming of having their own store. Finally, as any seed that is planted and nurtured, it sprouted into a brick and mortar store with “fun stuff for kids”. Books, puzzles, retro toys and children’s apparel, shoes and accessories all come together to create a store for shopping and playing.
Hoopla Store

“It was really important for us to have a place that people could not only shop in but also have fun in” Sabrina and Linda agree.

They have added additional services like monogramming and gift registry to help meet the needs of their customers. Party favors and stocking stuffers are a natural with their large selection of “bin” candy and toys.

The Decatur area has been a great community to start a business in and is a great place to spend the afternoon browsing the shops and restaurants. So Sabrina and Linda invite you to come shop and play!

PARKING OPTIONS
- Pay Lot near Johnny's Pizza
- Metered Parking on Sycamore St. or on the Square
- Parking Garage on the corner of Church and Ponce

Hoopla is just a few short steps away from MARTA (Decatur Station) on Church Street in beautiful downtown Decatur, Georgia.

Hoopla also has a blog and its been added to my blog roll


Hoopla, Inc.
414 Church St.
Decatur, GA 30030
Phone (404) 371-9485
Fax (404) 529-4888
info(at)hooplakids.com

COME IN & GO AWAY Door Mats Available at Heliotrop

This mind boggling doormat reads differently depending whether you are walking in or out of the house.

It's got to be seen to be believed but from one side this really does read "Come In" and from the other "Go Away". And when you have finished marvelling at this remarkable feat of graphic design you can wipe the mud from your boots too!!


Check out the Staff's Favorite Gift ideas

They even have Puff the Magic Dragon book & cd.


248 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur, GA 30030
404.371.0100

Remembering HULLABALOO'S

"HULLABALOO"
THE "IN" PLACE FOR YOUNG ADULTS

Who remembers where this place was located.?
Put on your thinking caps for this one.

Start Me Up - The Rolling Stones

This song was the wakeup music for Space Shuttle Endeavour

Classic song by The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones Live at Super Bowl 2006

Happy Birthday, Mickey Mouse!

Mickey Mouse turns 80
by Sandy Maple Nov 18th 2008 5:00PM



Mickey got his start in life after his creator, Walt Disney, got screwed over by Universal Pictures. In 1928, Disney was heading up Disney Brothers Studio for Universal and riding high with his wildly popular character Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. Rather than reward Disney for his success, Universal stole his character, hired away his employees and offered to let him stick around at a reduced salary. That was an offer Disney could - and did - refuse.

Walt Disney and his loyal animator Ub Iwerks went back to the drawing board, transforming Oswald the Rabbit into a mouse. Mickey, briefly known as Mortimer, struggled through a few animated bombs before finally getting his big break on November 18, 1928. On that date in New York City, Steamboat Willie premiered to rave reviews. The first animation to feature synchronized music and sound effects, the film made Mickey Mouse a star.

With Mickey's popularity spreading across the country, Walt Disney kicked the marketing into high gear. Mickey Mouse merchandise was created and within two years, the lovable rodent had his own fan club - The Mickey Mouse Club. Take that, Universal Pictures!

Over the years, Mickey has undergone numerous makeovers but his appeal remains constant. He has transcended his humble beginnings to become a cultural icon recognized and loved around the world. And unlike many other Disney stars, Mickey never succumbed to the temptations of fame and remains to this day an appropriate object of affection for children everywhere. Happy Birthday, Mickey!

Druid Hills Bridge Over Ponce de Leon Ave.

Warning 10 FT will not clear in right lane.


The Druid Hills Bridge on Ponce has had many high trucks scrap and even get stuck trying to go under. 10 ft. will not clear in right lane. Do they even have a "Warning" low bridge sign before you get to to it. The sign posted on bridge I think is a little to late. Trucks flying down Ponce need a better warning.

Not annexing could be costly for Decatur

Not annexing could be costly for Decatur

By APRIL HUNT

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Monday, November 17, 2008

Decatur residents could see their city and school taxes go up in the coming years if the city doesn’t add new property to its four-square-mile borders, according to reports released during a joint session of the city commission and school board Monday.

Despite the dire projections — showing that without new revenue the city could be up to $1 million the hole and the schools could be up to $2.2 million in the red — the reports stopped short of recommending annexation.
That, officials said, has yet to be decided.

“We are anxiously considering the options and whether we want to do this,” said Mayor Bill Floyd. “For us not to consider [annexation] would almost be irresponsible. But we are not yet for or against it, just looking at options.”

The city has weighed annexation for several years but keeps bumping against a major issue: how to find space for an influx of students into the school district.

One option to avoid that worry would be to annex only commercial areas to the north of the city. A second option calls for adding those areas, as well as two large residential neighborhoods, Forrest Hills and Midway Woods.

School superintendent Phyllis Edwards said that the district is already facing $2 million in cuts at a time when enrollment projections show a need for up to 10 additional classrooms in the coming year — even without annexation.

Adding an expected 450 new students through annexation to a district of 2,684 students would require a reconfiguration of school maps and the re-opening of another school. Opening an additional school would absorb annexation growth, as well as other yearly increases, but would require about 18 months of planning to be done right, she said.

None of the four dozen people in the audience was invited to speak on the reports. City residents have objected in the past to annexation, over concerns for the school district.

The 7,000 DeKalb residents who would join the city appear to be mixed on the move, since it would mean higher taxes. Homeowner association surveys show Midway Woods about evenly split on the issue, with 78 percent of Forrest Hill residents in favor of annexation.

The city commission will hold a public hearing on the issue on Dec. 1. The school board plans a public hearing sometime in early December as well.

The city commission is slated to vote on whether to seek state approval for annexation on Dec. 15.
More on ajc.com

* Decatur considers adding neighborhoods to city (11/17/2008)
* Online forum connects locals to issues (11/12/2008)
* DECATUR: Internet used to connect locals (11/12/2008)
* DEKALB COUNTY: Judge Hunter, Commissioner Boyer re-elected (11/06/2008)
* Runoff looms for Dekalb school board, Superior Court (11/05/2008)
* DEKALB COUNTY: Two incumbents pull away as many races runoff-bound (11/05/2008)
* More polls to open for advance voting starting Monday (10/25/2008)
* Developer, Decatur residents discuss controversial project (10/15/2008)
* Court favors cities in tax fund fight with DeKalb (10/07/2008)
* Moving up last call might keep out late-night clubs (10/01/2008)

Access Atlanta picks The Best Brew Pub around Atlanta

What’s the best brew pub around Atlanta?

By Phil Kloer | Monday, October 27, 2008, 07:30 AM

Best brew pub in Atlanta

* 1. 5 Seasons Brewing
* 2. Twain's
* 3. Max Lager's
* 4. Rock Bottom Brewing
* 5. Gordon Biersch

Access Atlanta Article here